As Teton Waters Ranch continues to grow, we’re seeking a hands-on, entrepreneurial R&D Scientist, Meat Science & Process Development to scale innovation thoughtfully and strengthen the processes that ensure quality across our portfolio. We’re looking for a builder, someone who can lead plant trials, solve technical challenges, and implement repeatable systems in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

The Role

This is not a bench-only role. This is a roll-up-your-sleeves, get-into-the-plant, solve-the-problem role. This collaborative role is based in our Loveland, CO office. When not traveling to plants, this position is expected to work onsite 3–4 days per week to enable strong cross-functional alignment and product development execution.

You’ll lead product development and commercialization across sausage, hot dogs, meatballs, and emerging platforms ensuring products scale with consistency, integrity, and quality. You’ll also support Quality systems to make sure what we promise on pack is delivered every single time.

We want someone who understands meat functionality deeply including protein bind, water activity, cook loss, emulsions but who also appreciates flavor, texture, and the culinary experience.

What You’ll Do

Product Development & Scale-Up

• Formulate and optimize grass-fed beef products for fresh, refrigerated, and frozen platforms.
• Translate culinary concepts into scalable, commercially viable formulas.
• Lead plant trials and support co-manufacturing partners.
• Troubleshoot processing challenges (purge, texture variability, yield, bind).
• Own precise documentation of formulas, specs, and process parameters.

Process Discipline & Quality Support

• Partner closely with QA on specifications, shelf-life validation, and continuous improvement.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions when needed.
• Ensure compliance in USDA-regulated environments.
• Help build repeatable, disciplined processes as we scale.

Sensory & Competitive Excellence

• Conduct sensory evaluations and competitive benchmarking.
• Refine flavor systems with ingredient and seasoning partners.
• Help ensure our products lead on taste not just claims.

• Bachelor’s degree in Meat Science, Food Science, or related field.
• 3–5 years of hands-on experience in meat product development.
• Strong understanding of meat functionality and processing systems.
• Experience in USDA-regulated facilities.
• Comfort working in plant environments and managing trials.
• Highly organized, process-oriented, and detail-driven.
• The position is based in Loveland, CO, with a preference for the individual to work from the office three days per week when not traveling. Estimated travel is approximately 50%.

About Teton Waters Ranch

Teton Waters Ranch is on a mission to nourish families and the planet with 100% grass-fed, grass-finished beef. Sourced from ranchers who uphold rigid humane standards, each product reflects a deep commitment to animal welfare, environmental health and clean, high-quality food. Every bite supports a better food system from pasture to plate. Our delicious products are available at grocery and club stores nationwide.

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